Experience holiday magic in Bradenton with our detailed guide.
From the enchanting Bradenton Christmas Village brimming with festive cheer to the delightful charms of Christmas in the Park with its twinkling lights and caroling, there's something for everyone. Be captivated by the stunning spectacle of the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, where decorated vessels shimmer on the water. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Bradenton
See these and even more events listed below!Bradenton Holiday Markets and Shopping
Bradenton Christmas Village
What to Expect:
Authentic European-style Christmas market
Description:
Bradenton Christmas Village transforms downtown into a slice of old-world Europe. Stroll through charming wooden stalls adorned with twinkling lights, offering handcrafted gifts and traditional European treats. The air is filled with the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. You can participate in a gingerbread house decorating contest, a beloved tradition brought by German immigrants to Florida in the late 19th century. This immersive experience transports visitors across the Atlantic, blending Floridian hospitality with continental Christmas customs.
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Nearby Events
Christmas in the Park (Sarasota)
What to Expect:
Interactive light sculptures
Description:
Sarasota's Christmas in the Park illuminates the night with cutting-edge light technology. Towering sculptures crafted from thousands of LED bulbs create a dazzling display that responds to visitors' movements. These interactive installations, a nod to Sarasota's rich artistic heritage, invite guests to become part of the exhibit. Children delight in "painting" with light on giant canvases. The event pays homage to John Ringling's vision of Sarasota as a cultural hub, blending art and technology in a uniquely Floridian holiday celebration.
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Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (Sarasota)
What to Expect:
Eco-friendly floating light show
Description:
Sarasota's Holiday Boat Parade of Lights glides through the bay, showcasing a fleet of vessels adorned with eco-friendly LED displays. Boats of all sizes, from kayaks to yachts, compete for the most creative and sustainable designs. The parade's route honors the city's maritime history, passing by historic landmarks illuminated for the occasion. Spectators can vote for their favorite boat via a mobile app, adding an interactive element to this aquatic spectacle. This event highlights Sarasota's commitment to environmental stewardship while celebrating its coastal lifestyle.
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Christmas on Main Street (Lakewood Ranch)
What to Expect:
Living history Christmas celebration
Description:
Lakewood Ranch's Christmas on Main Street catapults visitors back to the early 20th century. Costumed performers recreate a Florida pioneer Christmas, complete with period-accurate decorations and activities. The event showcases the area's agricultural roots with demonstrations of traditional crafts and foods. You can try your hand at making sugar cane syrup, a staple of early Florida Christmases. Live bluegrass music fills the air, complementing the rustic atmosphere. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the holiday celebrations of Florida's past.
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St. Armands Circle Holiday Night of Lights (Sarasota)
What to Expect:
Synchronized light and music show
Description:
St. Armands Circle Holiday Night of Lights in Sarasota orchestrates a symphony of light and sound. The circle's iconic palm trees and storefronts pulse with choreographed illuminations, synchronized to a curated playlist of holiday tunes. This technologically advanced display pays tribute to the circle's founder, John Ringling, known for his love of spectacle. Visitors can download an app to tune into the music and learn about the history of each featured song. The event transforms the upscale shopping district into a harmonious celebration of sight and sound.
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St. Armands Circle Holiday Night of Lights
Festival of Lights at UTC (Sarasota)
What to Expect:
Holiday joy with cultural festivities
Description:
Holidays at UTC in Sarasota transforms the shopping destination into a festive wonderland that blends holiday cheer with cultural celebrations. The event features a dazzling display of holiday lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere throughout the mall and surrounding areas. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from ice skating on a real ice rink to taking photos with Santa Claus. Live performances include holiday-themed music, dance, and theater, showcasing local talent and diverse traditions. Interactive exhibits and workshops allow families to create holiday crafts and learn about different cultural holiday practices.
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Ellenton Christmas Boat Parade (Ellenton)
What to Expect:
Historical reenactment boat parade
Description:
Ellenton's Christmas Boat Parade combines holiday cheer with living history. Boats adorned with period-accurate decorations represent different eras of Florida's maritime past, from Spanish galleons to modern fishing vessels. Participants dress in historical costumes, bringing the state's nautical heritage to life. The parade route follows the Manatee River, once a vital transportation artery for the region. Spectators can learn about Florida's maritime history through narrated presentations at viewing points along the shore. This unique event educates while it entertains, illuminating Florida's rich coastal heritage.
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Ellenton Christmas Boat Parade